The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) collects and publishes annual Local Government Finance data, including information relating to sources of revenue, expenditure by purpose and balance sheet information. These annual financial data are collected from the Department of Local Government or Grants Commission in each state or territory. The ABS also undertakes a quarterly sample survey of councils which is included in quarterly National Accounts publications.

Annual

The Local Government Statistical Unit (LGSU) of the ABS is currently processing the annual data returns supplied by each of the Department of Local Government or Grants Commissions. The financial and function data on these forms are edited and the output used by the ABS to compile Government Finance Statistics, Australia (cat. no. 5512.0).

The 2011-12 publication, released on 30 April 2013, showed Government Finance Statistics (GFS) Net Worth of the total local government sector in Australia was an estimated $331.6 billion, an increase of $14.9 billion (4.7%) since 30 June 2011. Liabilities of the total local government sector in Australia had increased by $1.9 billion from 30 June 2011 to 30 June 2012.

The ABS conducts a quarterly survey of financial information from a selected sample of councils each quarter. Reminders for the next round of quarterly survey data will be despatched in December. Responses are required by 9 January 2014. Early attention to the survey forms enabling a timely return to the ABS will ensure that the financial activity of local government is accurately represented in Australia's National Accounts.

The ABS thanks councils for their cooperation in providing timely and high quality data for these collections. The information provided is used in making important policy decisions concerning the sector and it is important that accurate and timely information is returned by councils to build this data set.

EMERGING ISSUES

Government Finance Statistics Review

The ABS collects and publishes local government financial data in line with the Australian Government Finance Statistics (GFS) system. Application of this system facilitates consistent data across all levels of government, and allows for international comparison of government finance statistics.

This system is currently being reviewed to incorporate changes to international standards for compiling GFS as well as recent changes to the System of National Accounts. This review will result in changes to published GFS data, and may also require changes in data collected from local government. The updated GFS system is expected to be implemented from the 2015-16 collection.

Local Government Finance Statistics Review

In conjunction with the GFS review, the Local Government Statistics Unit will be undertaking a review of data requirements relating to local government finance statistics. Over time, data needs and priorities change and so this review will involve analysis of current and emerging priorities in relation to local government finance data, and an assessment of how well the current collection aligns with these. The review is expected to be undertaken this financial year.

CONTACT

For further information or inquiries about Local Government Statistics, contact the Local Government Statistical Unit on (07) 3222 6113 or email t_t.statistics@abs.gov.au.

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